Give Yourself a Gift This Christmas, Stay Healthy During The Festive Season.
It’s not called the silly season for no reason. Partying, drinking, indulging, overeating and running around like a headless chicken from event-to-event and shop-to-shop, it’s no wonder many of us feel tired, rundown, overweight and stressed as the new year comes around. So I have included some tips for the festive season, “seven days of Christmas“.
Day 1: Travelling on the Holidays
Have niggling back and neck pain checked out before you leave to go on holidays. Long drives will always highlight any spinal problem. Safe, hands on treatment to restore joint and muscle flexibility as well as an exercise program are mainstays of chiropractic treatment for spinal pain.
Day 2: Reaching and Bending for Christmas Presents
When reaching for something above shoulder level, for example when placing the Angel on the top of the Christmas tree, stand on a stool. Over stretching to reach such objects could strain the spine and injure your nervous system. Remember to support yourself to avoid and limit falls.
Day 3: Exercise
Your brain thrives and drives with movement. Remember to keep up with your exercise routine. Just because you were out and about the night before is no excuse to sleep in and forego your workout. Staying active will help you feel better.
Day 4: Relaxation
As much as Christmas is a lovely time to catch up with all your friends and family, remember to take some time out for YOU. The nervous system requires rest to heal and repair.
Day 5: Nutrition
Remember to make healthy choices this Christmas. It’s easy to get carried away with all the puddings and chocolates and shortbread and party food, but before over-indulging remember how it’s going to make you feel the next day. If you do like enjoying Christmas treats, limit your portion size.
Day 6: Water
Drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated. If you do drink alcohol, remember to alternate every alcoholic drink with a glass of water and please don’t drink on an empty stomach. It is clear that alcohol does suppress brain function. There is do remedy, other than limit your consumption of alcohol.
Day 7: Sleep
Get plenty of rest and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night. It’s not going to make or break your life if you don’t go to EVERY party. Also avoid sleeping in positions that could strain and injure the spine and head.
